Power plant will diversify economy: Govt

The ACT Government says the gas fired power station project in Tuggeranong is an important step towards diversifying the local economy.

The consultation period for the gas-fired power station near the Mugga Lane tip will be extended by 30 days after an angry public meeting in Tuggeranong this week.

Actew AGL wants to build the power station, which will feature up to nine chimney stacks to support a data storage centre.

Planning Minister Andrew Barr says it is important that the project be debated fully by the community.

"Have the courage to have the discussion and not just to close off immediately, that's why I'm extending the public consultation process," he said.

"That's why Actew AGL are going to engage further in discussing the detail of the project, but fundamentally though, it is an important project for the Territory and if we are serious about diversifying our economic base, then we should be supporting projects like this."

Mr Barr says the Government is under pressure to diversify the economy.

"I found it fascinating that the knee jerk reaction of the Opposition to immediately dismiss the project, given all of the talk from the Shadow Treasurer about diversifying the economic base," he said.

"The first opportunity to do so and one of his colleagues gets on the radio and takes the cheap political route to try and oppose this project outright."